Rose Hip Seed Oil

by Beth Haley

Rose hip seed oil is different from rose essential oil which comes from the rose petals. Rose hip seed oil is found in the rose fruit left behind when the flowers have finished blooming, and does not contain the typical rose fragrance found in the flowers. Rose hip seed oil goes rancid quickly, and should be stored in a cool, dark place or stored in the refrigerator.

This oil was used by ancient Egyptians, Mayans and Native Americans because of its healing qualities, and was even used as a wound healer. Today, most of the oil from the rosa canina rose bush, comes from Chile although it is also grown in parts of Europe, Northwest Africa, and Western Asia – or from the sweetbriar and musk rose in the Southern Andes.

It has been called a “dry” oil because it absorbs quickly into the skin and helps to return the skin’s natural balance, making it a good choice for all skin types.


Full of many Skin-Nourishing Vitamins and Fatty Acids

Vitamin E – known for calming and hydrating dry and sensitive skin

Essential fatty acids such as omega 3, 6 and 9 – known to help repair skin and help with skin cell regeneration

Vitamin C – known for its skin-brightening properties, can help improve the appearance of pigmentation (age spots/ dark spots) and restores skin tone

Vitamin A – also known to improve skin tone along with improving the skin’s texture

Both vitamins A and C are beneficial in the production of collagen, which we make less of as we age. This makes the oil a powerful anti-aging addition to your skin care regimen. Synergistically, vitamins A, C and E help to combat the visible signs of sun damage and reduces the harmful effects of UV exposure.


Overall

Rose hip seed oil helps to hydrate, moisturize, brighten and replenish your skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties have been helpful for acne, rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis. It softens skin and gives a brighter and more radiant complexion while also reducing the appearance of scarring, stretch marks, fine lines and wrinkles.


Patch Test

Test rose hip oil on a small patch of skin before using. After a day, if the skin does not show any irritation it should be safe to use elsewhere.

Cold pressed, organic rose hip seed oil is recommended for its purity and quality of benefits.

Note: If you are allergic to roses, chances are you’ll also be allergic to the oil, so make sure and do the patch test if in doubt.


Preparation

Rose hip seed oil can be used as a carrier (or base) oil to which you can add essential oils to.

This bottle has been disinfected, as you would do for baby bottles. To this I will add mostly rose hip oil and a few drops of frankincense essential oil. Frankincense also helps to rejuvenate, tone and firm. It balances oily/dry skin, helps deter wrinkles, and is healing. The roller bottle makes it easy to apply the oil to face, neck, and hands before bed.

Store in a dark cupboard or refrigerator. You can roll some of this oil onto the palms of your hands and let it warm up before massaging it into your skin.

Sources:

Women’s Health

MUN


Photo@unsplash

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